The Wine Region of Chateauneuf-du-Pape

When you hear a wine name like Châteauneuf-du-Pape, you probably think of how you've seen that on a label in your local wine store. But what many people forget is that like Bordeaux, Champagne, and Burgundy, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is an actual place in France – and that means you can visit it, and see where your wine comes from, how it's made, and learn about its history first-hand.

The first thing that strikes you about some of the vineyards of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region are the rocks. Unlike the rich earth and lush foliage surrounding a vineyard, the secret to the terroir of Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the rocky earth of the northern slopes, which retain the sun's heat and allow for a warmer terrain longer in the day.

There are other interesting facts about the Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region – how its tannic nature allows for a richer maturation, and how some white grape varietals are used in the making of their famous reds. All of this and more are why going on a tour of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region is never, ever a waste of time – especially when they come with tastings at the end!